Wednesday, 15th February 2012

Walk: From New Holly to Cleveleymere, Scorton, cross R. Wyre to Caravan Park, cross A6 to Lancaster canal; Cabus Nook, Radcliffe Bridge, Nicholson's Farm back to New Holly.
Start Point: The New Holly, Forton Grid Reference: SD 492 504
Distance: 5.3 miles Ascent: 250 feet
Time: 2.75 hours    
Weather: Mild and bright with occasional sunny spells; a slight chilly breeze at times
Comments: A combination of factors meant that this day proved to be one of the most popular this year with 42 walkers and 1 independent walker (Jack). There was no short walk last week, it was a beautiful day and members did not like to let Ann down as she had had to pay a £50 deposit to secure the meal booking!! She was extremely grateful and moved by their loyalty.
We set off down Hollins Lane which was thankfully quiet but the group became divided down the minor road as a huge tanker approached, half the group retreated. We regrouped at the bottom of the hill near Cleveleymere. The air was so still that there were wonderful reflections in the water. Banks of snowdrops were everywhere. The stiles were not too difficult to negotiate so there was little hanging around and the path to Scorton, although a little muddy could have been a lot worse. We had a sunny break at the playground in Scorton where most people found a seat or wall to sit on and the public toilets came in handy. Unbelievably crossing the A6 was a doddle. The whole group got across at one go and they were walking in file!! I think everybody enjoyed the walk along the canal in the sunshine, admiring the boats, commenting on their names and encouraging the young fishermen; family outings as it was half term. We arrived back at the New Holly before the expected time but the meals were served steadily, but with such a large group, 40 diners, some had to wait 30 mins. to be served. Everybody commented that the meals were excellent, and thought the pub could be used again. Perhaps the landlady would realise that Fylde Ramblers could be relied upon to turn up and not request a deposit next time.
Thanks must go to Ann McKay for assisting in the leadership and rekeying and Stewart for being an excellent back marker and herding in the flock.

Scroll down to see photos of the walk

Ann and Terry lead the way

 

42 Walkers today

 

John strides out

 

Reflections in Cleveley Mere

 

Snowdrops in abundance

 

Snowdrops in the hedge

 

Queuing for a stile

 

Crossing a little bridge

 

Bridge over the River Wyre

 

Group crossing

 

Des and Alison

 

Snowdrops in a wood

 

Cabus Nook Vridge

 

Snowdrops in a row

 

Canal at Cabus Nook

 

Colourful reflections

 

Des breaks into song

 

Young fisherman

 

Approaching Ratcliffe Bridge

 

Lancaster Canal

 

Primroses or primulas

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